How to avoid dog bites
THE MORNING CALL
Each year more than 5 million Americans suffer from injuries caused by dog bites, according to the World Wide Pet Industry Association, a nonprofit organization that promotes responsible pet care. The organization recommends these tips to prevent dog bites:
- Always ask pet owners before petting their dogs. Some dogs may not be properly socialized.
- Be cautious. Avoid petting a dog if his hair is standing up. This usually is a sign the dog is angry or irritable and will not want to be touched.
- Manner matters. Do not approach a dog from behind or make loud or abrupt movements when approaching a dog. Dogs do not like to be taken by surprise, especially by strangers.
- Use common sense. Stay away from dogs while they are eating or sleeping as they may be caught by surprise or become territorial.
- Educate your kids. Most victims who require medical attention from dog bites are children and half of them have received bites to the face. Teach your children these tips and supervise their behavior around unfamiliar dogs. For more information on pets, visit <a href=”http://www.petsource.org”>www.petsource.org</a>.
